These are the words of Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
In essence, the IPCC acknowledges that the world is in deep trouble on climate change, but that we CAN turn it around.
The synthesis report confirms humans are unequivocally increasing greenhouse gas emissions to record levels. Global temperatures are now 1.1℃ above pre-industrial levels and are likely to reach 1.5℃ above pre-industrial levels in the early 2030s.
The report also states that the global economic benefit of limiting warming to 2℃ exceeds the costs of emissions reduction.
We have the collective experience to turn the corner.
Many regulatory and economic policy instruments have been used successfully. Further we know how to design climate policies to make sure they are politically acceptable and do not disadvantage the poorer parts of society.
The report also draws out the importance of good institutions for climate change governance – such as laws and independent bodies – and for all groups in society to be meaningfully involved.
Excerpts from:
Felicity Maher
Sustainability Officer
